Master of Science in Engineering, Vehicle Engineering

What does a civil engineer in vehicle technology do? – Tasks and work environment

A civil engineer in vehicle technology works on developing, designing, and optimizing vehicles and their technical systems. Tasks include designing new vehicle components and systems, leading technical projects, and analyzing performance and safety. The work is often done in close collaboration with colleagues in mechanics, electronics, and software, and it is common to participate in interdisciplinary development teams. The work environment is primarily office-based, but there may also be elements of work in laboratories, test facilities, or production environments, depending on the project phase and focus.

Salary development over time

The salary for a civil engineer in vehicle technology has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, increasing to 49 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 52 000 SEK per month, representing an increase of about 9.5% over three years. This salary development follows the general trend in technical engineering professions where demand for specialist skills is high, especially in the automotive industry undergoing significant technological changes. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level, experience, and sector. Particularly, individuals with doctoral education or leadership roles tend to have higher salary growth.

Master of Science in Engineering in Vehicle Technology salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 313 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Men's average salary: 52 700 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a civil engineer in vehicle technology, a Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Vehicle Technology, or a related field is usually required. The education is typically five years long and includes both theoretical and practical components. Many employers also value additional courses in electronics, programming, and sustainable technology, as well as experience from internships or thesis work in the automotive industry.

• Master of Science in Engineering: 5 years (300 hp) with specialization in vehicle technology or mechanical engineering
• Internship/Thesis: Recommended within the automotive industry
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility plus specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Certifications/courses: Meritorious in CAD, electronics, sustainability, and project management
• Tips when choosing: Select specialization or focus on vehicle technology early in the education

Common benefits and compensations

Civil engineers in vehicle technology are often offered attractive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work options, and generous holiday agreements. Other common compensations include further training, bonus programs, and sometimes car or travel benefits depending on the employer and position.

Competition and challenges

The job market for civil engineers in vehicle technology is characterized by high demand, but also a paradox where many leave the profession while recruitment difficulties exist. The technological development in the automotive industry, especially within electrification and digitization, demands continuous skill development. Competition for the most attractive positions is fierce, particularly within leading companies and future-oriented areas. At the same time, the profession often requires the ability to handle complex projects and quickly adapt to new technologies and work methods. The balance between technical expertise and broad project understanding is crucial for success.

Tips for those who want to become a civil engineer in vehicle technology

To succeed as a civil engineer in vehicle technology, it is good to have a genuine interest in technology and strong problem-solving skills, which facilitate handling complex challenges in development projects. Being analytical and precise helps with simulations and technical calculations, while teamwork and communication skills are important in interdisciplinary teams. Flexibility and curiosity ease adaptation to the industry’s rapid technological development, and the ability to independently drive projects is advantageous for those aiming for leadership roles. Actively seeking internships and thesis projects within the automotive sector provides valuable experience and networks that can open doors to future employment.

Key facts about civil engineers in vehicle technology

• Education level: Master of Science in Engineering, 5 years
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of laboratories and test environments
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationally
• Work form: Project-based and interdisciplinary collaboration
• Special knowledge: Electrification, sustainability, and digitization

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a civil engineer in vehicle technology can advance to roles such as project manager, specialist in areas like electrification or sustainability, or take responsibility for development departments. There are also opportunities to work internationally or pursue research and development within academia or industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, opportunities for employment remain large and are expected to stay unchanged over five years, despite many leaving the profession and recruitment difficulties. For those looking to change fields, related areas such as mechanical engineering, product development, or technical project management are relevant options. Currently, approximately 564 job openings are available within the group of civil engineers in mechanical engineering.

Common questions about civil engineers in vehicle technology

• What does a civil engineer in vehicle technology earn?
  - The average salary is 52 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and education.
• What do salary differences between men and women look like?
  - Men earn on average 52 700 SEK and women 49 900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work as a civil engineer in vehicle technology?
  - A Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering or Vehicle Technology, often five years long, is required.
• What does the job market look like?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationwide and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does a civil engineer in vehicle technology perform?
  - Development, design, and optimization of vehicles and technical systems, often in project form.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels can vary between regions and employers, especially depending on proximity to major vehicle manufacturers.
• What career opportunities are there after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to project manager, specialist, or manager within development, and to work internationally.